Vaccine safety, effectiveness and local distribution the focus of third COVID-19 Virtual Forum

Vaccine safety, effectiveness and local distribution the focus of third COVID-19 Virtual Forum

Northumberland County, Ontario – Thursday, February 11, 2020 – With the rollout of COVID-19 vaccines underway for priority populations in Northumberland as part of Phase 1 of the provincial distribution plan, Ontario Health Team of Northumberland (OHT-N) partners will host an interactive online session to answer the public’s vaccine-related questions.


How do the COVID-19 vaccines work? Are the vaccines safe? How long will immunization last? How are vaccines being distributed? When is rollout to the general population expected and how will this be coordinated locally? The third OHT-N COVID-19 Virtual Forum will address these questions and more during a 60-minute online event on Thursday, February 25, beginning at 7 p.m.Join four panelists from the local health care community, who will open the forum with a brief overview of topics including how the vaccines work in the body to combat the virus, the status of local vaccine rollout along with rough timelines for expanded distribution, and the partnerships in place to ensure a coordinated approach to mass vaccination across Northumberland. Panelists will then take questions from participating members of the public.There are two options to join: directly via the Zoom platform or by phone. Participants joining via Zoom will be able to ask questions directly of the panelists as well as other OHT-N representatives, including both county hospitals, Northumberland Paramedics, community care agencies, long-term care providers and more. Those joining by phone are invited to submit their questions in advance.


“As vaccine supply continues to flow into Northumberland and distribution expands to the broader community, we hope that everyone who is eligible will roll-up their sleeves – in consultation with their health care provider – to help prevent further spread of COVID-19 in our community, and support the national movement to build widespread immunity,” says Linda Davis, spokesperson for the OHT-N and President and CEO of Northumberland Hills Hospital.


“We know that vaccination is the only foreseeable way to bring an end to the COVID-19 pandemic – it is a robust layer of PPE we can each don in building our collective defence against this virus. OHT-N partners are collaborating with the Haliburton Kawartha Pine Ridge District Health Unit and stand ready to support the priority work of local vaccine rollout in any way needed. As part of this vital collaboration, we look forward to sharing information and answering questions during this upcoming Virtual Forum to help members of the public make informed decisions about getting the COVID-19 vaccine, once available.”


Who


Moderated by Linda Davis, President and CEO, Northumberland Hills Hospital, this forum will include the following presenters:

  • Dr. Ian Gemmill,  Acting Medical Officer of Health, Haliburton Kawartha Pine Ridge District Health Unit
  • Karen Peters,  Pharmacist, Northumberland Family Health Team
  • Dr. Emma Smith,  Primary Care Physician



Why


Get answers to your COVID-19 vaccine-related questions from local experts and learn how community partners are working together to coordinate local vaccine distribution.

Related Articles

By Tegan Sloley • September 8, 2026
Following the success of last year's event, St. Peter’s Anglican Church is welcoming seniors, caregivers, families and community members back for its second annual Seniors and Caregiver Fair this November. The fair brings together local organizations and community partners offering programs, services, education and support for older adults and caregivers across Northumberland County. Event Details When: Wednesday, November 4 Time: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Where: St. Peter’s Anglican Church: 240 College Street, Cobourg Connect With Local Supports The Seniors and Caregiver Fair is an opportunity to explore the many programs and services available to support older adults, caregivers and families in our community. Visitors can: Meet local organizations and service providers Learn about programs and supports available in Northumberland County Ask questions and get information about services that may be helpful to them or someone they care for Connect with community resources in one convenient location For caregivers, finding the right information or knowing where to turn for support can sometimes feel overwhelming. Bringing organizations together in one place makes it easier to ask questions, make connections and discover resources that can help. The fair is also a chance for seniors and older adults to connect with organizations that can support their health, well-being, independence and quality of life. Whether you're a senior looking to explore local resources, a caregiver supporting a loved one, a family member looking for information, or simply interested in learning more about services in your community, you're invited to attend.
By Tegan Sloley • September 8, 2026
Rebound Child & Youth Services is inviting the community to get moving this fall at Kilometers 4 Kids , a family-friendly event supporting local youth and mental health. Participants can walk, run or ride either a 1 km or 5 km route , making the event an opportunity for people of all ages and activity levels to take part. Event Details When: Saturday, October 17 Start Time: 9:15 a.m. Where: Victoria Hall, Cobourg Move for Mental Health Kilometers 4 Kids is about more than getting active. Funds raised through the event help empower local youth and support the work of Rebound Child & Youth Services. The event offers an opportunity for families, friends and community members to spend time together while supporting mental health and well-being for young people in our community. Whether you're looking to walk, run or ride, there are options for different ages and abilities. Participants can choose the 1 km or 5 km route and take part at their own pace. Gather your family, friends or teammates and join Rebound for a morning of movement in support of local youth. Registration is available at: rcvs.ca/k4k2026
By Tegan Sloley • September 8, 2026
Seniors and older adults in the Trent Hills community are invited to join local organizations and community partners for Trent Hills Seniors Day , an afternoon focused on information, education and resources to support independent living. Hosted by the Municipality of Trent Hills Fire Department and community partners, the event will feature presentations tailored to help seniors continue living independently and confidently in their own homes. Event Details When: Wednesday, October 7 Time: 12:30 p.m. Where: Sunny Life Recreation and Wellness Centre: 50 Seymour Quarry Road, Trent Hills What to Expect The afternoon will begin with a complimentary lunch , followed by presentations focused on topics and information that can help older adults stay safe, independent and connected in their homes and communities. Seniors Day is an opportunity to: Learn about resources and supports available in the community Get practical information to support independent living Connect with local organizations and service providers Ask questions and learn about ways to stay safe and well at home Events like this provide an opportunity for older adults, caregivers and community members to connect with local services and learn more about the supports available close to home.
See More News